I Know Where I Was When
Shawn M. Galloway
CEO of ProAct Safety, Inc., Trusted Advisor, Best-Selling Author, Keynote Speaker & Expert Witness
What are the most memorable cultural events that shape your thinking and storytelling?
In a recent group text, someone sent a picture (like the one above) and other items from the 1980s asking, "What memory does this prompt?" I responded, "5th-grade science class, January 1986, watching the Space Shuttle Challenger launch on the roll-in TV. I've always felt for my teacher. A room was full of students as the explosion occurred. Tearful silence." A friend responded, "Every time I see that picture/card image, that's exactly what I think of! Crazy."
This is one of those "I remember where I was when…" events that I will never forget that shape why I do what I do in my chosen profession. With people unfamiliar with these events within a society or corporation, as they join, they are passed on through storytelling, eventually generation by generation. These pivotal moments serve as touchstones in our collective memory, anchoring us to our shared experiences and values.
In addition to the Challenger disaster, many may also recall the events of September 11, 2001, when the world witnessed a tragic loss and a profound shift in global perspectives. The shock and grief that enveloped that day resonate deeply in the narratives of resilience and unity that emerged in its aftermath. Such events are etched in the minds of those who experienced them and in the fabric of the culture surrounding them.
Understanding these cultural landmarks is not just a matter of personal interest, but a key to unlocking the motivations and reactions of colleagues in the workplace. For instance, a team member's heightened sensitivity during discussions around security or risk management may be rooted in their personal recollections of a crisis or a particular event. By engaging in open dialogue about these shared histories, teams can foster a deeper sense of empathy and connection, paving the way for a more cohesive and understanding work environment.
Storytelling is not just a way to share personal experiences but a powerful tool that allows individuals to weave their narratives into the broader company lore. This creates a tapestry of experiences that honors both the past and present. When newcomers are invited to share their own stories, they contribute to an evolving culture that values diverse experiences while still acknowledging the foundational events that shape its core.
As we continue navigating through our own unique historical events, it's crucial to remain vigilant and proactive in discussing their implications. The rise of social media, for instance, drastically alters how we communicate and process information, influencing the narratives we construct about ourselves and our organizations. By recognizing these contemporary events and their potential impact, we can remain adaptable and open-minded, ensuring that our storytelling remains relevant and resonant.
The events that shape our culture are not merely relics of the past, but active forces that continue to influence our thinking, behaviors, and interactions. By honoring these moments through storytelling, we create a richer understanding of ourselves and each other, enabling us to build a more inclusive and supportive community, whether at work or beyond. As we foster this culture of shared narratives, we not only preserve the lessons of history but also empower future generations to carry the torch of understanding and empathy forward.
If you are new to a group and want to know your team and culture or understand the why behind written and unwritten rules, seek to learn and understand the events that shaped them and what stories continue to shape the culture today.
“Stories constitute the single most powerful weapon in a leader’s arsenal.” - Dr. Howard Gardner
“There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place.” - J.K. Rowling
“Stories create community, enable us to see through the eyes of other people, and open us to the claims of others.” - Peter Forbes
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Shawn M. Galloway is the CEO of the global consultancy ProAct Safety. With over twenty years of experience in safety systems, strategy, culture, leadership, and employee engagement, he is a trusted advisor, keynote speaker, and expert witness. He is the author of several bestselling books and has multiple regular columns in leading magazines, with over 400 articles and 100 videos to his credit. He also created the first safety podcast, Safety Culture Excellence, with over 800 episodes.
As a leading and globally recognized expert on safety excellence, he has helped hundreds of organizations within every primary industry achieve and sustain excellence in performance and culture.
He has been interviewed and a guest on Fox News, Sirius Business Radio, Wharton Business Daily, EHS Network Radio, Safety and Health Magazine, EHS Today Magazine, ISHN Magazine, Safety Decisions Magazine, EHS Daily Advisor, Faces of EHS, and almost every safety-related podcast.
Shawn's passion, dedication, and significant contributions to the safety field have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards and accolades, including Global Safety Excellence Expert, Power 101 Leaders of the EHS World, Top 50 People Who Most Influenced EHS, Top 40 Rising Stars, and Top 11 Health and Safety Influencers. His influence is felt globally, and his status as an esteemed Avetta Distinguished Fellow and Advisor to Harvard Business Review further underscores his expertise and makes his perspectives highly sought after.
Improvement Guru. I help organizations become better & make the world better. Lifelong Learner. Always learning about my expertise, my community, my professional partners, & our world. Let’s make our world better.
1 个月It’s interesting too that there are a lot of studies on these types of events and how our memories fail us. We were not there, the story told in real time is not as we remember them, etc. The mind is amazing and mysterious too.